The Dress Up

Wedding Dress Code and Attire for Kids: A Guide for Stress-Free Style

When attending a wedding with kids, one of the first questions parents ask is: “What should they wear?” Choosing the right attire for children not only helps them look the part but also ensures they’re comfortable enough to enjoy the celebration (and maybe even make it through the ceremony without any outbursts).

This guide breaks down how to dress kids for weddings based on different dress codes, from casual garden affairs to black-tie events. This blog offers practical tips for keeping everyone happy, stylish, and tantrum-free!

Why Dress Codes Matter for Kids Too

Weddings are special occasions, and just like adults, kids should dress appropriately to match the formality of the event. Not only is it respectful to the couple, but well-dressed children also tend to feel more involved and excited about the day.

Coordinating with the Wedding Theme

If you're close to the couple or part of the wedding party, you might receive guidance on colours or themes. Don’t be afraid to ask about:

- Colour coordination for flower girls or ring bearers.
- Matching outfits if siblings are attending. We have a whole blog dedicated on how to style sibling coordination outfits, you can read here.
- Cultural or religious attire expectations.

Comfort Comes First

Even the most stylish outfit won’t matter if your child is too uncomfortable to sit still. Here’s how to balance style and comfort:

- Break in new shoes before the big day.
- Choose breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Pack a spare outfit in case of spills, bathroom accidents, or a change in weather.
- Bring along layers for chilly evenings.

Final Tips for Parents

- Involve your child in the outfit-picking process (especially older kids) to avoid meltdowns.
- Keep snacks and distractions handy for long ceremonies.
- Let them wear the fun accessories, bow ties, flower crowns and fabulous shoes. They’ll enjoy being part of the festivities.

Pro tip: Take a photo before heading out, because between the dancing, the dessert, and the inevitable grass stains, it might be the only time their outfit looks picture-perfect!

If you're not sure what kind of suit your little one should wear to an upcoming wedding, you're definitely not alone! With so many dress codes and wedding vibes out there, it can be tricky to know what’s appropriate. We’ve put together a simple cheat sheet to help guide you to the perfect suit style. It’s a quick and easy way to take the guessing and panicking out of dressing your child for the big day.

Black Tie
A boy should wear a classic black tuxedo paired with a white dress shirt, a black bow tie, and polished black dress shoes. This is the most formal dress code and should be kept sleek and traditional.

Cocktail
A dark or neutral-coloured suit is appropriate, worn with a dress shirt and preferably a tie. Dress shoes should be polished, but the overall look can be a bit more relaxed than black tie.

Casual
A button-down shirt with dress trousers is suitable, paired with loafers or clean dress shoes. A blazer is optional, and a tie is not required, making this a smart yet easy-going outfit.

Daytime Autumn/Winter
Opt for a dark, formal suit paired with a long-sleeved dress shirt, tie, and dress shoes. A tweed suit not only adds warmth but also brings a refined finishing touch.

Daytime Spring/Summer
Light-coloured suits: such as beige, stone, or light grey work well, especially when made from breathable fabrics like linen or cotton. Pair with a white or pastel dress shirt for a fresh seasonal look.

Nighttime Autumn/Winter
A tweed or heavier wool suit is ideal, complemented by a dress shirt. A turtleneck jumper can be worn instead of a shirt for a sophisticated and warm alternative.

Nighttime Spring/Summer
Consider a lightweight waistcoat suit in a breathable material like linen or cotton. Pair it with a crisp dress shirt and classic dress shoes for an elevated but seasonally appropriate evening look.

Dressing kids for a wedding doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning and attention to comfort, your little one can shine right alongside the rest of the guests and make unforgettable memories!